The 33rd Annual society competition was held today at Nodes Farm Magham down.With a record 41 cutters and perfect sunny weather we knew we were in for a good day.

The majority of the cutters were on the main drive down to the farm, working on Beech, with the novices a little further away working on thorn.

The draw went of with the usual theatre and we set off on time to start work.

Our team of judges and stewards did a sterling job of keeping order, and our team of photographers recorded the details, and tea (and cake) makers kept everyone going.

We had a fair number of spectators, so thanks to them, its good to see people showing an interest. if your reading this.... we do offer training courses so please let me know and if could well be you competing and winning a cash prize next year.

The sections we were working on were pretty consistent, other than the grotty length which Geoff Pitt was assigned in the draw. Des was very impressed with his work, and all agreed that it was the best work on a poor length.

With good weather most people had plenty of time, although a few of the seniors were making the most of the time and went right up to the wire.

Anyway by the time the final horn went off we had some winners, and a full set of complete sections. Very well done to all the competitors some superb work by all. And we hope to see many of you at the "fun day" next month for the end of season session (and FOOD!) Let me know if you are planning to attend and I will send you a map.

As always it is worth asking the judges how you can improve, they will be honest and let you know where the think you can improve. if you didn't speak to your judge then at least have a look at the following table with the scores for each section

And finally we were at the pub, and some really good food, thanks to the Horseshoe Inn for managing to feed another 12 people on top of the 57 we had booked. Very well done, and everyone enjoyed it.Thanks Mariya.

Photo's a on the way to our usual Flickr site as I type. Might take a while as there are loads!